How to Deal With Mother's Guilt

It doesn't matter if you stay at home, work out of the house, are single, married, a mother to many or a mother of one; all mothers have one thing in common--guilt. Mothers often feel unable to give enough of themselves and dwell on mistakes they've made. However, guilt doesn't have to control your life. Follow these steps to work toward freeing yourself from mother's guilt.

Instructions

    • 1

      Pinpoint exactly what you feel guilty about. Your guilt may be telling you that there is something you need to change in your life.

    • 2

      Look closely at your priorities. Make a list of what is essential for the health and happiness of your family. What is important to your family may not matter to other families and vice versa. Be secure with your priorities.

    • 3

      Make more time for your family. Even though you are a mother, you can't do everything, so if it is not on your priority list then get in the habit of saying "No."

    • 4

      Live in the present. The mistakes you have made are over and done with. Forgive yourself for your mistakes, learn from them and leave them in the past.

    • 5

      Set limits for your children. As a parent you are responsible for the well being of your children, as well as helping them to develop their personal character. Teaching them to respect the boundaries you have set is an important lesson, and is one that you should never feel guilty about enforcing.

    • 6

      Take time for yourself. Even though it may seem impossible to find the time, if you are drained emotionally or physically then you have nothing to give your children. Plus, you should take time for yourself solely for the fact that you are worth it.

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